Revelation 9:6

In those days men will seek death and will not find it; they will long to die, but death will escape them.

Study Bible

In those days
This phrase refers to a specific period during the end times, often interpreted as the Great Tribulation. This is a time of intense suffering and judgment upon the earth, as described in the book of Revelation. The phrase "in those days" is used throughout the Bible to denote significant prophetic periods (e.g., Joel 2:29-31).

men will seek death
The suffering and torment during this period will be so severe that people will desire death as an escape. This reflects the intensity of the plagues and judgments described in Revelation, such as the locusts from the abyss (Revelation 9:3-5). Historically, seeking death in times of extreme distress is not uncommon, as seen in Job 3:21, where Job laments his suffering.

and will not find it
Despite their desire to die, death will elude them. This suggests a supernatural intervention where God prevents death, emphasizing the inescapable nature of divine judgment. It highlights the sovereignty of God over life and death, as seen in Deuteronomy 32:39.

they will long to die
The longing for death underscores the hopelessness and despair that will characterize this period. It is a reversal of the natural human instinct to preserve life, indicating the severity of the tribulation. This longing is reminiscent of the despair expressed by figures like Elijah in 1 Kings 19:4.

but death will escape them
This phrase indicates that death, often seen as a release from suffering, will not be available. It serves as a reminder of the ultimate control God has over life and death, as well as the inescapable nature of His judgment. This can be contrasted with the hope of eternal life offered through Jesus Christ, as seen in John 11:25-26.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Men
Refers to humanity, specifically those who are experiencing the torment described in the preceding verses. This is a time of great suffering during the tribulation period.

2. Death
Personified in this context, indicating a state or event that people desire but cannot attain. It highlights the severity of the torment that makes death seem preferable.

3. The Tribulation
A period of intense suffering and divine judgment on earth, as described in the book of Revelation. This verse is part of the description of the fifth trumpet judgment.

4. The Fifth Trumpet
An event in the series of judgments in Revelation, where locust-like creatures torment those who do not have the seal of God on their foreheads.

5. The Abyss
The bottomless pit from which the tormenting locusts emerge, symbolizing a place of chaos and evil.

Teaching Points

The Reality of Divine Judgment
Revelation 9:6 serves as a stark reminder of the reality and severity of divine judgment. It challenges us to consider the seriousness of sin and the consequences of rejecting God.

The Futility of Seeking Escape from God’s Judgment
The inability to find death despite seeking it illustrates the futility of trying to escape God's judgment. It calls us to repentance and to seek refuge in Christ, who offers salvation.

The Importance of Spiritual Readiness
This verse underscores the importance of being spiritually prepared. Believers are called to live in readiness for Christ's return, ensuring that they are sealed by God and protected from His wrath.

The Hope of the Gospel
While this verse depicts a grim reality, it also points to the hope found in the Gospel. Through faith in Jesus Christ, we can be spared from the wrath to come and have eternal life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Revelation 9:6 challenge our understanding of life and death from a biblical perspective?

2. In what ways does the longing for death in this verse reflect the spiritual state of those who reject God?

3. How can we apply the message of Revelation 9:6 to encourage others to seek salvation in Christ?

4. What other biblical passages can help us understand the nature of God’s judgment and mercy?

5. How does this verse motivate us to live in readiness for Christ’s return and to share the Gospel with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Job 3:21
Job's lamentation where he longs for death but it does not come, paralleling the desire for death in Revelation 9:6.

Jeremiah 8:3
Describes a time when death is preferred over life, similar to the longing for death in Revelation 9:6.

Luke 23:30
Jesus speaks of a time when people will call for the mountains to fall on them, indicating a desire to escape suffering.

Revelation 6:16
People call to the mountains and rocks to hide them from the wrath of the Lamb, showing a desire to escape divine judgment.